Louisburg Sq. Renovation Tabled by Bhca

In light of serious concerns raised by abutters to the project, the Beacon Hill Civic Association (BHCA) Zoning and Licensing Committee voted Wednesday to table its decision on the planned rehabilitation of a townhouse at 12 Louisburg Square.

The homeowner intends to convert the three-family house into a single-family unit in multiple phases, resulting in an approximately 460 square-foot expansion to the building. Proposed construction includes building a 24-foot roof-deck on the existing ell; constructing a bay window on the south façade of the ell; converting two existing dormers into one; adding an elevator; and excavating the basement to create services, laundry and storage space, as well as a gym and studio space; among other modifications.

The homeowner’s attorney, Larry DiCara of the Boston law firm Nixon Peabody, said he expects the project would require a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) variance and that the city’s Zoning Board of Appeal would review the matter at a hearing in mid-July or August.

Concerns voiced by neighbors at last week’s committee meeting included the setback of the proposed roof-deck, as well as light and privacy issues.

As part of its motion to table the application, the Zoning and Licensing Committee has requested that the applicant work with abutters and neighbors to reach a consensus on the project, and that the applicant meet with the committee again before the zoning hearing.